English Language Arts

ENGLISH 9 LRC   8105L

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-GRADE 9 

This full-year course is designed to provide students with an essentialized delivery of English 9 and continues their growth in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. Additionally, this course is designed to implement the goals of the IEP. This program affords students the opportunity to become more proficient in communication skills. Students will use strategies to refine critical reading and writing skills in order to analyze a variety of literary and informational/nonfiction genres and to write effectively. There are multiple writing assignments per marking period, which emphasize informational and persuasive/argumentative modes. Vocabulary development and grammar usage are integrated into the course. The research process, introduced in grade nine, is continued. Students are assessed via tests, quizzes, projects, class participation, and homework. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing.
 

ENGLISH 9: READING AND WRITING WORKSHOP  1104  

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-GRADE 9

Prerequisite: Reading Specialist Recommendation

This full-year course is designed to assist students in continuing their growth in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. In small classes, students will use strategies to refine critical reading skills in both fiction and nonfiction.  Utilizing a writing lab component, they will learn to write for multiple purposes for various audiences. A written research report is required of all students. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing. In addition, formal vocabulary and grammar studies are key components of the course. Teachers also work with students to develop time management and independent study skills needed for a successful high school career. Students will begin preparing for the Keystone Literature test, which will be given in the spring of 10th grade.

ENGLISH 9    1106   

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-GRADE 9

This full-year course is designed to assist students in continuing their growth in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. Students will use strategies to refine critical reading skills in both fiction and nonfiction. They will learn to write for multiple purposes for various audiences. A written research report is required of all students. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing. In addition, formal vocabulary and grammar studies are key components of the course. Teachers also work with students to develop time management and independent study skills needed for a successful high school career. Students will begin preparing for the Keystone Literature test, which will be given in the spring of 10th grade.
 

HONORS ENGLISH 9    1108                                                              

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 9

This rigorous full-year course introduces students to critical reading and writing. It differs from English 9 in that it requires extensive out-of-class preparation time, significant independent reading, demonstrated competency in both reading and writing, proficiency in composition conventions, and independent motivation.  Literature studies include selections that lend themselves to in-depth study, using a variety of critical approaches. Students will receive direct instruction for reading informational/nonfiction texts. Writing pieces vary in length and complexity; modes of writing include some narrative and reflective, but informational and argumentation and persuasive modes are emphasized. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing. The research component of the course is required of all students. Formal vocabulary and grammar studies are included in the course. Students will begin preparing for the Keystone Literature test, which will be administered in the spring of 10th grade.

HONORS STUDY OF ENGLISH 9   1109                                                                 

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 9

Prerequisite: GIEP

This rigorous full-year course introduces students to critical reading and writing. Extensive out of class preparation time and significant independent reading is required. This course is designed for students identified as gifted and will develop GIEP goals throughout the course. Various literary works will be used to teach reading, writing and analysis. Students will write in a variety of modes including some narrative and reflective, but informational, argumentation, and persuasive modes will be emphasized. Research, vocabulary and grammar are other components of this course. Students will be expected to engage in seminar style discussions and to use critical thinking skills on a daily basis in this course.

ENGLISH 10 LRC    8110L

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-Grade 10 

This full-year course is designed to provide students with an essentialized delivery of English 10 and continues their growth in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. Additionally, this course is designed to implement the goals of the IEP. This program affords students the opportunity to become more proficient in communication skills. Students will use strategies to refine critical reading and writing skills in order to analyze a variety of literary and informational/nonfiction genres and to write effectively. There are multiple writing assignments per marking period, which emphasize informational and persuasive/argumentative modes. Vocabulary development and grammar usage are integrated into the course. The research process, introduced in grade nine, is continued. Students are assessed via tests, quizzes, projects, class participation, and homework. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing.

Students will continue preparing for the Keystone Literature test, which will be administered in the spring.
 

ENGLISH 10: READING AND WRITING WORKSHOP   1204    

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 10 

Prerequisite: Reading Specialist Recommendation

This full-year course is designed to assist students in continuing their growth in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. Using small classes, this program affords students the opportunity to become more proficient in communication skills. Students will use strategies to refine critical reading and writing skills in order to analyze a variety of literary and informational/nonfiction genres and to write effectively. 

Utilizing a writing lab component, there are several writing assignments per marking period, which emphasize informational and persuasive/argumentative modes. Vocabulary development and grammar usage are integrated into the course. The research process, introduced in grade nine, is continued. Students are assessed via tests, quizzes, projects, class participation, and homework. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing. Students will continue preparing for the Keystone Literature test, which will be administered in the spring of 10th grade. 

ENGLISH 10    1206
      
-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 10 

This full-year course is designed to assist students in continuing their growth in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. This program affords students the opportunity to become more proficient in communication skills. Students will use strategies to refine critical reading and writing skills in order to analyze a variety of literary and informational/nonfiction genres and to write effectively. 

There are several writing assignments per marking period, which emphasize informational and persuasive/argumentative modes. Vocabulary development and grammar usage are integrated into the course. The research process, introduced in grade nine, is continued. Students are assessed via tests, quizzes, projects, class participation, and homework. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing. Students will continue preparing for the Keystone Literature test, which will be administered in the spring of 10th grade.

ACCELERATED ENGLISH 10    1207

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 10 

This full-year course is designed for strongly motivated students who wish to develop their critical thinking, reading, and writing skills. It affords enthusiastic readers who have mastered most of the basic grammar, mechanics, spelling, and writing skills the opportunity to learn and become more proficient in communication skills. Students will use strategies and skills to read independently a variety of literary and nonfiction/informational genres for multiple purposes, use strategies and skills to communicate effectively in writing, actively and effectively speak and listen for an intended message, and effectively use research skills.  Vocabulary development and grammar usage are integrated into the course. It differs from Honors English 10 and English 10 in two ways: first, the literature portion demands the comprehensive reader to master the most challenging of the English 10 works, while including choice selections from the Honors 10 curriculum; secondly, the pace of the class will directly coincide with its demand for independent motivation. Students will continue preparing for the Keystone Literature test, which will be administered in the spring of 10th grade.

HONORS ENGLISH 10   1208

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 10 

This full-year course introduces the student to in-depth critical reading and writing preparation for college- level study. Out-of-class preparation time, superior reading comprehension, a coherent writing style, and mastery of composition conventions are required for success. Literary and informational/nonfiction texts include challenging selections in a variety of genres from different cultures and historic periods. Some critical commentary about the selections will be introduced. Writing pieces vary in length and complexity; modes of writing are primarily reflective, informational, argumentative and persuasive. 

The research component of the course is a documented I-Search paper. Lengthy reading assignments and intensive vocabulary study are included, and the conventions of standard written and spoken English are reviewed. Students are assessed via quizzes, tests, writing assignments, and oral participation. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing rubric. Students will continue preparing for the Keystone Literature test, which will be administered in the spring of 10th grade.

ENGLISH 11 LRC   8120L

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-Grade 11 

This full-year course is designed to provide students with an essentialized delivery of English 1 and continues their growth in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. Additionally, this course is designed to implement the goals of the IEP. This program affords students the opportunity to become more proficient in communication skills. Students will use strategies to refine critical reading and writing skills in order to analyze a variety of literary and informational/nonfiction genres and to write effectively. There are multiple writing assignments per marking period, which emphasize informational and persuasive/argumentative modes. Vocabulary development and grammar usage are integrated into the course. The research process, introduced in grade nine, is continued. Students are assessed via tests, quizzes, projects, class participation, and homework. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing.
 

ENGLISH 11: READING AND WRITING WORKSHOP   1304

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 11

Prerequisite: Reading Specialist Recommendation

This full-year, college preparatory course is designed to assist students in continuing their growth in critical reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. Using small classes, literature discussion includes many novels, plays, and selected short stories and poetry. Students will also read nonfiction and informational texts.  Much of the reading is done independently. Utilizing a writing lab component, writing—including both in-class and out-of-class papers—focuses primarily on informational and persuasive/argumentative modes. These compositions include short papers, extended five-paragraph essays, and a literary research paper with documentation. Vocabulary is assigned and tested regularly. Grammar, usage, sentence structure, paragraph development, and mechanics are reviewed or taught as needed. Students are assessed through quizzes, writing assignments, and homework. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing. The course includes SAT preparation. 

ENGLISH 11   1306

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 11 

This full-year, college preparatory course is designed to assist students in continuing their growth in critical reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. Literature includes many novels, plays, and selected short stories and poetry. Students will also read nonfiction and informational texts. Most of the reading is done independently. Writing, including both in-class and out-of-class papers, focuses primarily on informational and persuasive/argumentative modes. These compositions include short papers, extended five-paragraph essays, and a literary research paper with documentation. Vocabulary is assigned and tested regularly. Grammar, usage, sentence structure, paragraph development, and mechanics are reviewed or taught as needed. Students are assessed through quizzes, writing assignments, and homework. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing. The course includes SAT preparation.

ACCELERATED ENGLISH 11    1307

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 11 

This full-year course is designed to be an English program that is challenging but less rigorous than Honors English 11. Proficiency in writing (especially in expository and persuasive modes) and critical reading ability are essential to success in this course. The literary focus is on American genres. Writing focuses on the informational, persuasive, and analytical modes. A major course requirement is a literary research paper with documentation. Vocabulary is assigned and assessed regularly. Grammar, usage, sentence structure, paragraph development and mechanics are reviewed or taught as needed. Assessment is based on tests and quizzes, writing assignments, and homework. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing. The course includes SAT preparation. Literary analysis is a major component of the course.

HONORS ENGLISH 11    1308

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 11          

This rigorous full-year course assumes prior critical reading and effective writing skills. It focuses on the development of American literature from the seventeenth to the twentieth century. This chronological approach places the literature in its historical and social contexts, thereby giving students a richer understanding of the works read. Extensive required out-of-class reading includes novels, short stories, poetry, essays, informational texts and literary nonfiction. 

Writing instruction emphasizes expository, persuasive, and analytical modes, including critical papers analyzing literary selections and a literary research paper that includes textual and critical documentation. Work on style and voice in writing is emphasized. 

Vocabulary is assigned regularly and grammar, usage, and mechanics are reviewed. SAT practice is incorporated. Students are assessed on the basis of tests, quizzes, oral presentations, and writing assignments and portfolios. Writing is assessed using the five domains of writing. Summer reading is required.

HONORS STUDY OF ENGLISH 11      1309 

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 11

Prerequisite: GIEP

This rigorous full-year course is designed for students who currently have a GIEP, and who have shown strong critical reading and effective writing skills. Extensive out of class preparation time and significant independent reading is required. Outside readings will include novels, short stories, poetry, essays, informational texts and literary nonfiction. This course focuses on American literature from the seventeenth to the twentieth century, exploring historical and social contexts to allow students to develop a richer understanding of the works read. Writing instruction emphasizes expository, persuasive, and analytical modes, including critical papers analyzing literary selections and a literary research paper that includes textual and critical documentation. Work on style and voice in writing is emphasized. Vocabulary and grammar are other components of this course. Students are assessed on the basis of tests, quizzes, oral presentations, writing assignments and portfolios. There will be an emphasis on developing critical thinking skills through reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing. 

• Summer reading is required.

 ADVANCED PLACEMENT 11 LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION   1310

-Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 11

This full-year, college-level course is designed for students with considerable writing skill. The AP course in Language and Composition engages students in becoming skilled readers of both fiction and nonfiction, written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Both their writings and their readings will make students aware of the interactions among a writer’s purposes, audience expectations, and subjects as well as the way generic conventions and the resources of language contribute to the effectiveness in writing. This course focuses on rhetorical writing skills required for the college level. Student writing will develop the use of the elements of style, tone, persuasion, imagery, theme, metaphor, satire, and a variety of other rhetorical elements. In addition, extensive out-of-class reading (including novels, short stories, poetry, and essays) is required. Additional literary selections, including critical material, are read in and out of class. Vocabulary is assigned regularly and grammar, usage, and mechanics are reviewed. SAT practice is provided. The material included in the AP test will be addressed in class. Students will be eligible to take the Advanced Placement examination for exemption from freshman college English and for credit for graduation. 

• Summer reading is required.

ENGLISH 12 LRC   8130L

-Course offered in a FULL YEAR format
-Grade 12 

This full-year course is designed to provide students with an essentialized delivery of English 12 and continues their growth in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research skills. Additionally, this course is designed to implement the goals of the IEP. This program affords students the opportunity to become more proficient in communication skills. Students will use strategies to refine critical reading and writing skills in order to analyze a variety of literary and informational/nonfiction genres and to write effectively. There are multiple writing assignments per marking period, which emphasize informational and persuasive/argumentative modes. Vocabulary development and grammar usage are integrated into the course. The research process, introduced in grade nine, is continued. Students are assessed via tests, quizzes, projects, class participation, and homework. Written pieces are assessed using the five domains of writing. 
 

  ENGLISH 12: READING AND WRITING WORKSHOP   1404 

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 12

Prerequisite: Reading Specialist Recommendation

This semester course is designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and to support competence in writing and reading skills, including basic literary analysis. Using small classes, critical thinking will be developed to ensure comprehension, application, and interpretation of key concepts. Literature selections emphasize world authors. A required Shakespearean text will be supplemented with novels, plays or a short story unit. Students will also read literary nonfiction and informational texts. Utilizing a writing lab component, students will continue to study vocabulary and to review grammar, usage, and conventions. 

ENGLISH 12   1406 (1406 C)

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Course is offered in a VIRTUAL format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 12

This semester or alternate-day course is designed to prepare students for post-secondary education and to support competence in writing and reading skills, including basic literary analysis. Critical thinking will be developed to ensure comprehension, application, and interpretation of key concepts. Literature selections emphasize world authors. A required Shakespearean text will be supplemented with novels, plays or a short story unit. Students will also read literary nonfiction and informational texts. Students will continue to study vocabulary and to review grammar, usage, and conventions.
 

ACCELERATED ENGLISH 12    1407 (1407 C)

-Course is offered in a YEAR LONG format
-Course is offered in a VIRTUAL format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 12

This full-year course requires students to have competent reading and proficient writing skills. Literature selections emphasize world authors. Required reading includes an early classic, an existential work, a Shakespearean play, a 20th century novel, short stories, and poems. Students will also read nonfiction/informational texts. In addition to writing a researched literary analysis, students will compose essays in a variety of writing modes: informational, persuasive/argumentative, descriptive, and personal. Vocabulary will be an integral component, and much of the reading, writing, and study will require self-direction and independence.    

HONORS ENGLISH 12    1408

-Course is offered in a YEAR LONG format
-Course is offered in a VIRTUAL format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 12

This rigorous full-year course provides a thorough and advanced study of key concepts derived from world literature. Informational, persuasive/argumentative modes will be the emphasis in writing and will require application, analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of complex course material. This course also requires the reading of a self-selected novel (from an approved reading list) that results in a researched literary analysis. Extensive reading and research of novels, plays, short stories, and poetry requires collaboration, self-direction, and independence. Students will also read nonfiction/informational texts. Intuitive, creative, and critical thinking are essential to understand, interpret, and apply abstract and complex concepts in the areas of reading, writing, vocabulary, and grammar.  

• Summer reading is required.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT 12 LITERATURE & COMPOSITION   1410

-Course is offered in a YEAR LONG format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 12  

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation and at least a B average in either Honors English 11 or AP 11 Language & Composition

This full-year, college-level course is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement examination for exemption from freshman college English. The material included in the AP test will be addressed in class. Many challenging novels, plays, and poems will be studied in depth, utilizing a variety of critical approaches to literature. Reading outside of class is extensive. Evaluation will focus on critical essays, researched essays, creative efforts, and objective tests. Literary terms will be emphasized. Grammar and standard usage will be addressed. Writing will be assessed using Advanced Placement descriptors. 

• Summer reading is required. 

LANGUAGE ARTS FOR ENGLISH       1553
                                                               
-Course is offered in a YEAR LONG format
-Grade 9-12 

Prerequisite: ELD Specialist Recommendation informed by WIDA ACCESS/WIDA Screener scores

This full-year, multidimensional Language Arts class for Entering and Emerging EL students (Newcomers) integrates all four domains of speaking, reading, writing and listening in a balanced and structured way to enable EL students to make continued growth in their language and literacy development. The course is co-taught by an ELD Specialist and a Reading Specialist. 

ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT STUDY SKILLS    1554  

-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format                                                                                  
-Grades 9-12 

Prerequisite: ELD Specialist Recommendation

This course is for all English Learners who are enrolled in the ELD program. This course will provide each student with skills and strategies designed to facilitate academic success and to strengthen receptive and productive language skills in English. There will be numerous opportunities to practice communicating and understanding information. Students will also work independently on course assignments, receive direct instruction, and support from the ELD Specialist. Instruction for each student will be differentiated based on ability level.

STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING YOUR READING LRC

- Course is offered in a FULL YEAR format
-Grade 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Teacher and IEP Team Recommendation.

Using technology, data-driven assessment tools and differentiated instruction, this class seeks to help students become better readers and writers. The purpose of this course is to develop, reinforce, and improve reading and writing skills.  Additionally, this course is designed to implement the goals of the IEP. These skills include understanding main ideas and supporting details, making predictions and inferences, determining order of events, drawing conclusions, context, dual analysis, vocabulary development, spelling, and grammar. Students also have an opportunity to read self-selected texts that are appropriate for their reading levels and interests. Individualized and small group instruction is an integral component of this course.
 

ANCIENT MYTHOLOGY  1508, 1509 (1508 C)

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Course is offered in a VIRTUAL format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 10-12

This semester course explores various themes in the mythology of the Ancient Greek, Roman, and Norse cultures through reading, writing about, and discussing a variety of myths and legends. Discussion of various themes is based on the assigned texts. Writing assignments include original myths, short essays, and reaction/journals. Class discussions and assessment tasks are important components of this course.   
 

WORLD MYTHOLOGY, LEGENDS, AND FABLES      1541        

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Course is offered in a VIRTUAL format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 11-12

This course explores themes in the myths, legends, and fables of various world cultures. This will be accomplished through the discussion in the assigned texts. Requirements also include reading, writing about, and discussing a variety of myths, heroic tales, legends, and fairy tales. Required writing assignments include original myths/fables/legends, short essays, and reactions/journals. Participation in class discussions and completion of assessment tasks are also requirements of the course.

CREATIVE WRITING   1510        

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 10-12

This semester or alternate day course teaches the student to plan, draft, revise, and edit various types of creative writing. In a supportive workshop atmosphere, the student learns and practices the creative process. Students participate in many informal writing experiences, including brainstorming, journal writing, free writing, and group processing. Most of these informal writings act as a springboard for major projects: two major short stories, fifteen to twenty poems, and a one-act play. Students critique and model fiction writers and poets to enrich their literary repertoire. Writing is assessed using rubrics, conferences, checklists, portfolios, and criteria presented at the start of each major writing assignment.

EXPOSITORY WRITING    1519      

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 10-12

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

This writing course emphasizes improvement in writing skills. Essays written in several rhetorical modes go through various stages of the writing process. Students learn to utilize and implement prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing (both peer and teacher) in preparation for final draft submission of essay assignments. The maintenance of a daily journal and a writing portfolio are required components for this semester/alternate day class. Independent functioning in a writer’s workshop atmosphere is a requirement of the course. All student writing is done in class. Because of the workshop nature of the class, regular attendance is mandatory. Writing is assessed using the five domains of writing and other methods of assessment: teacher conferencing, portfolio submission, and/or rhetorical mode criteria as per assignment.

ACCELERATED COMPOSITION  1537        

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Course is offered in a VIRTUAL format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 10-12

This writing course teaches the student to plan, draft, revise, and edit various kinds of college writing. In a supportive, workshop atmosphere, the student learns to write by writing. Students participate in many informal writing experiences, including brainstorming, journal writing, free writing, and group processing. Most of these informal writings are preludes or responses to the ten major writing assignments. Students use the Internet to research materials for papers and to access college and university websites addressing all aspects of writing. Writing is assessed using writing rubrics, conferences, checklists, portfolios, and criteria presented at the beginning of each writing assignment.

ACTING 1     1502

-This course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Grade 9-12 

Acting 1 is an alternate day course that serves as an introduction to theater. The course is activity-oriented and requires students to be involved at all times. Exercises, theater games, and experimental theater are critical components of the course. Some out-of-class rehearsal time is required. Characterization is emphasized through selecting, rehearsing, and performing scenes from published plays. The course emphasizes ensemble work, mime, movement, voice, and performing before an audience. Assessment is based on the observations and evaluations of attitude, effort, preparation, and performance. 

ACTING 2   1504                                                           

-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Grade 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Acting 1

Acting 2 is an alternate day course that serves as an intermediate course in theater. The course is activity-oriented and requires students to be involved at all times. Exercises, theater games, and experimental theater are critical components of the course. Out-of-class rehearsal time is required. Characterization is emphasized through selecting, rehearsing, and performing scenes from published plays. The course emphasizes ensemble work, mime, movement, voice, and performing before an audience. Assessment is based on the observations and evaluations of attitude, effort, preparation, and performance. Acting 2 students will be provided with further opportunities to explore and expand more sophisticated techniques in their craft.

DIRECTING 1    1514 
                                     
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Grade 11-12

Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Acting 1 & Acting 2 or Teacher Pre-approval

This alternate day course is designed for students who have completed Acting 1 and 2. Much of the class work will include individualized projects. Each student will be required to direct a major scene or a one act play; students must be prepared to work each day after school during the rehearsal period of their play.

DIRECTING 2  1516
                              
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Grade 12

Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Directing 1 and Teacher Recommendation

Students in Directing 2 will continue to work from their individual levels of competency after completion of Directing 1. Much of the class work will include individualized projects. The final project will require each student to direct a theater piece for public performance.

CRITICAL VIEWING   1512, 1513                                

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Grade 11-12

Prerequisite: Signed Parental Permission​​​​​​​ 

This course is open to 11th and 12th grade students only. Students with an interest in film criticism, filmmaking, or communications will benefit from the course. Approximately 14 films are shown for analysis and discussion on thematic topics such as comedy, human drama, sports, and war. Students will learn basic film terminology and will be introduced to key concepts relating to filmmaking techniques.  Students may also study notable directors including Hitchcock, Coppola, and Spielberg. Assessment will include quizzes, film logs, unit tests, compositions, and class participation. Good attendance is a must to be successful in this course.

​​​​​​​*R-rated films from an approved list may be shown in this class. Parents will be informed about specific R-rated titles. 

FILMMAKING 1  1517

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Grade 10-12

This semester or alternate day course takes the student through the filmmaking process from development through postproduction. It is designed for any student interested in learning how to make movies and films, whether it be a home movie, highlight video, or a major motion picture. All of the practical aspects of film are introduced in this course. Students are assessed through class participation, projects (including preproduction and development) and tests and quizzes each marking period. Upon the completion of this course, the project becomes the property of the student. 

ACCELERATED FILMMAKING 2   1522        

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Grade 11-12

Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Filmmaking 1 and Teacher Pre-Approval

This alternate day course will allow students to continue to develop their visual storytelling through advanced methods and techniques. Earning students ½ English credit, this course enables students to create and produce extended videos/films with the intention to submit their work to area and national film festivals and media showcases. Building on the components of Filmmaking 1 (available for grades 10-12), editing, camera instruction, and lighting will be the cornerstones of this course. Script (Story) development, storyboarding, oral pitch sessions, and revisions will continue to blend together English and Communications skills. This course is designed for students who plan to go into a digital/media field in college or career as well as those who utilize Filmmaking 1 skills to enhance their multimedia presentations throughout their curricular endeavors.

COMMUNICATIONS/MEDIA    1544, 1545          

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-Course is offered in a VIRTUAL format
-Grade 9-12

This semester course is designed to provide in-depth understanding of broadcasting and its impact on the media. The course is intended for students who have a very serious interest in media and communication and are looking to further pursue the medium. Strong emphasis will be placed upon the history of television along with related terms, network and affiliate structure, violence and the media, the First Amendment and Freedom of Speech, and television advertising. As available, operation of technical equipment (audio and video), scripting, directing, and on-camera performances will be explored. At least one major writing assignment per marking period is required. Communications/Media is a required prerequisite for TV Production.​​​​​​​

TV/VIDEO PRODUCTION   1548

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Grades 10-12

Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Communications/Media

This semester course is designed for students who have a serious interest in further study of media and communication. It provides an in-depth understanding of television and its impact on other media. Heavy emphasis will be placed on writing, staging, and acting using production techniques learned in the course. Producing, directing, lighting, editing, and engineering operations highlight the programming elements of this course. 

INDEPENDENT TV/VIDEO PRODUCTION        1550
                                               
-Course is offered in a YEAR LONG format
-Grade 11-12

Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Communications/Media and TV/Video Production and Teacher Pre-Approval 

This course provides individualized participation in creating television productions used by Council Rock School District. Personal experiences and encouragement of creative talents are of primary importance in this course. The role of the student as producer-director is emphasized, with students supported by faculty supervision. Students will be assessed in other areas such as reliability, cooperation, creativity, responsibility, and accepting constructive criticism.

PUBLIC SPEAKING          1530, 1531                           

-Course is offered in a SEMESTER format
-Course is offered in an ALTERNATE DAY format
-NCAA approved course
-Grade 10-12

This alternate day or semester course provides an introduction to public speaking. Students will become acquainted with aspects of the public speaking process by taking part in various activities. Students will compose and present 8-12 speeches of various types, as well as provide encouragement and feedback for peers. Each speech will be accompanied by skill development activities, and students should be ready and willing to speak regularly in front of their peers. Because the class becomes an audience for the speaker, listening skills are an integral component of the course. Each speech will be assessed by the teacher according to predetermined criteria and will be accompanied by student feedback. Because skill development occurs in class, regular attendance is of the utmost importance. The final assessment will include both a written and an oral component.